Preschool megahit CoComelon is soon to embark on the next stage of its remarkable journey from digital-first singalong favourite to streamer juggernaut. After being picked up by Netflix in 2020, the animated property will switch to Disney+ from 2027.
CoComelon, created by Moonbug Entertainment, is still massive on YouTube, where it originated in 2006 and currently has 193 million subscribers. But in 2020, it forged an alliance with Netflix – one of the earlier examples of social video forming part of the premium content strategy at subscription-based streamers. Going forward, however, Disney+ will have control of all CoComelon episodes from 2027.
Trade outlets are reporting different reasons for the shift. Some say that Netflix has decided to let go of the show because of a drop in audiences. Others say that the Disney streaming platform outbid its rival for the property.
Preschool is a key battleground for the major SVOD platforms, because it is a strong factor in stopping subscribers with kids from churning out of platforms. Disney+ is particularly well-supplied in this area, with global hits like Bluey and iconic properties like Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. Netflix properties include Sesame Street, Peppa Pig and Ms Rachel – another property plucked from the YouTube ecosystem.
Moonbug Entertainment, which is owned by Candle Media, has also enjoyed success with Blippi, another preschool series that has 23m subscribers on YouTube.
